Nhat Tuan Nguyen,PHD Scholar

Academic Writing

Hanoi/2012

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
I. REVISION

In the previous classes we have learnt: The style of English Academic Writing Writing Introduction Logical Connector in Academic Writing II. ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

This kind of essay expresses an opinion about a controversial issue. As the writer, you must take a position and persuade the reader to agree with your opinion by using strong, logical reasons to support your arguments. Essay Organization: Introduction The hook introduces the issue. Background information gives a picture of the issue and why it is important, as well as various views of the issue. The thesis statement clearly states your point of view. The topic sentence in each body paragraphs presents ONE distinct reason for your viewpoint stated All supporting sentences in each paragraph must support the topic sentence It is advisable to presents an opposing opinion then show that your argument is stronger. This counter-argument is often in paragraph one or three Restate the argument that appeared in the thesis It could be end with a prediction, a warning or other types of comment that reinforces your viewpoint It may state the general issue in broader context

Body Paragraphs

Conclusion

Language of discussion: The following phrases could be used when writing an argumentative essay: It is generally accepted that It is widely agree that.. Most people appear. It is probable that. The evidence suggests that. It can be argued that One view is that

Nhat Tuan Nguyen,PHD Scholar

Academic Writing

Hanoi/2012

Computers and modems have made it possible for office workers to do much of their work from home instead of working in offices every day. Working from home should be encouraged as it is good for workers and employers. Do you agree or disagree? Write at least 250 words Complete the answer by filling the gaps with a word or phrase from the box below. Also Secondly such as because Finally while The first is that For Example In conclusion since

On the other hand

A further point is that

In recent years the vast expansion of information and communications technology has made teleworking much more practical. Although in many cases office workers could be made geographically independent by using modems, faxes and cell phones, few companies or employees take full advantage of this possibility. There are a number of strong arguments in favor of allowing workers to work from home. Firstly costs for employers would be reduced .................... businesses would require less office space, which is often situated in the center of large cities. ...................., worker's lives would be improved in a variety of ways. ...................., they would not need to travel to get to work, which would give them more free time. ...................., they could combine their work with their family life, which is a major advantage if they are parents of young children or they have old people to look after. ...................., traveling to a centralized workplace also has a number of points in its favor. .................... many employees would miss the social aspect of work .................... seeing colleagues and meeting customers. .................... employers would need to be able to trust their workers to work at a high standard and finish their work on time, .................... supervising teleworkers is even more complicated than supervising workers in the same office. ...................., working from home might inhibit teamwork and creative work and so perhaps so only really suitable for people doing routine office work. ...................., I believe that .................... many workers welcome the opportunity to go out to work, others would find the chance to work from home very convenient. Where possible, I think workers should be offered the choice, but not forced to work from home unless they wish to.

Nhat Tuan Nguyen,PHD Scholar

Academic Writing

Hanoi/2012

Nowadays many students have the opportunity to study for part or all of their courses in foreign countries. While studying abroad brings many benefits to individual students, it also has a number of disadvantages. Do you agree or disagree? Write at least 250 words. As mass communication and transport continue to grow, societies are becoming more and more alike leading to a phenomenon known as globalization. Some people fear that globalization will inevitably lead to the total loss of cultural identity. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words. Recent figures show an increase in violent crime among youngsters under the age of 18. Some psychologists claim that the basic reason for this is that children these days are not getting the social and emotional learning they need from parents and teachers. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words. In today's competitive world, many families find it necessary for both parents to go out to work. While some say the children in these families benefit from the additional income, others feel they lack support because of their parents' absence. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words. School children are becoming far too dependent on computers. This is having an alarming effect on reading and writing skills. Teachers need to avoid using computers in the classroom at all costs and go back to teaching basic study skills. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.